Mission Agency’s General Counsel announces retirement

Martha Clark looks forward to what lies ahead

by Melody K. Smith | Presbyterian News Service

LOUISVILLE – Martha Clark has announced her retirement from the Presbyterian Mission Agency. Clark serves as the General Counsel for the Presbyterian Mission Agency (PMA) and Office of the General Assembly (OGA), as well as the General Assembly, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) A Corporation, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Investment and Loan Program Inc. (PILP), Presbyterian Women in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Inc., Presbyterian Mission Agency Board and Committee on the Office of the General Assembly.

Joining the staff of the Mission Agency in 1996, Clark began as Associate General Counsel and was promoted to General Counsel in 2008. During her tenure she has served three stated clerks, seven PMA executive directors and four chief financial officers. Prior to her service to the church, Clark was an attorney with Humana Inc. for 11 years.

Embracing this new chapter, Clark said she plans to spend her retirement focusing on a healthy lifestyle, travel, hobbies and listening to what God asks of her next.

When asked what she is most proud of from her time with the PC(USA), Clark immediately replied, “My team. They are hardworking, brilliant, dedicated and love the church.”

She is also extremely proud of the progress PILP has made since its incorporation (which happened right before she started) and the strong partnership that has been developed with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Foundation staff. Clark also said that the separate incorporation of Presbyterian Women in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Inc. is another favorite milestone.

Clark’s last day will be at the end of 2018. She will be transitioning the work of the General Counsel in the interim.